Apart from your period, your cycle consists of 3 other phases. A total of 4 phases which we collectively call your menstrual cycle. These phases are: the follicular phase, ovulation, the luteal phase and menstruation. During these 4 phases, different hormones do their work. As a result, you often feel differently during each phase of your cycle. This varies from person to person
1. Follicular phase
The follicular phase is when the maturation of the egg cell (also called follicle) takes place. When the hormone estrogen has reached its peak, it signals to the body that the egg has matured sufficiently. The production of luteinising hormone increases, releasing the egg from the follicle.
How do you feel during this phase?
Slowly, your estrogen levels rise, making you feel more energetic and creative.
2. Ovulation
When the egg is released, we are in the ovulation phase. About two weeks before the end of the menstrual cycle. On the days before, during and after ovulation, the chances of becoming pregnant are highest. This does not mean that on other days and in other phases of your cycle you cannot get pregnant. The chances are just smaller.
How do you feel during this phase?
You may feel slight cramps during ovulation. The days before and after ovulation, you often feel energetic and feel more in the mood for sexual intimacy.
3. Luteal Phase
During the luteal phase, the uterus prepares for the implantation of the fertilised egg. The remains of the follicle undergo a change after ovulation. They transform into a so-called yellow body under the influence of the luteinising hormone. That's where the name luteal phase comes from.
How do you feel during this phase?
This phase lasts a relatively long time (can last up to two weeks). The closer you get to the menstrual phase, the more PMS symptoms may appear. Think mood swings, binge eating or skin problems. This is because oestrogen levels drop and progesterone levels rise. The fluctuation of these can cause mood swings.
4. Menstruation
The egg is not fertilised after ovulation. This depletes the yellow body and your progesterone production drops. The endometrium that formed for the implantation of the egg is shed. Your period begins. The first day of your period is also day one of your full cycle. In some cases Norethisteron can be subscribed.
How do you feel during this phase?
Although the mood swings and eating out may subside a bit once your period has started, you may experience more physical symptoms such as cramps, fatigue and headaches during these days. If you experience severe menstrual symptoms, we recommend you contact your GP.
We recommend you contact your GP if you have doubts or questions about your cycle or experience severe symptoms.